What is alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS)?
Alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS) is the name for the symptoms that occur when a heavy drinker suddenly stops or significantly reduces their alcohol intake.
With AWS, you may experience a combination of physical and emotional symptoms, from mild anxiety and fatigue to nausea. Some symptoms of AWS are as severe as hallucinations and seizures. At its most extreme, AWS can be life threatening.
The signs and symptoms of AWS may appear anywhere from 6 hours to a few days after your last drink. These usually include at least two of the following: